We are called to share the good news in evangelism, but not to engage in unworthy proselytizing.
Evangelism (while it includes persuasive rational argument following the example of the Apostle Paul) is "to make an honest and open statement of the gospel which leaves the hearers entirely free to make up their own minds about it. We wish to be sensitive to those of other faiths AND we reject any approach that seeks to force conversion on them."
Proselytizing is the attempt to compel others to become "one of us," to "accept our religion," or indeed to "join our denomination."
- We commit ourselves to be scrupulously ethical in all our evangelism. Our witness is to be marked by "gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience." We therefore reject any form of witness that is coercive, unethical, deceptive, or disrespectful.
- In the name of the God of love, we repent of our failure to seek friendships with people of Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, and other religious backgrounds. In the spirit of Jesus, we will take initiatives to show love, goodwill and hospitality to them.
- In the name of the God of truth, we (i) refuse to promote lies and caricatures about other faiths, and (ii) denounce and resist the racist prejudice, hatred and fear incited in popular media and political rhetoric.
- In the name of the God of peace, we reject the path of violence and revenge in all our dealings with people of other faiths, even when violently attacked.
- We affirm the proper place for dialogue with people of other faiths, just as Paul engaged in debate with Jews and Gentiles in the synagogue and public arenas. As a legitimate part of our Christian mission, such dialogue combines confidence in the uniqueness of Christ and the truth of the gospel with respectful listening to others.
Whatever your ministry, as Christians we need to be intentional about evangelism through deed, word, and discipleship.